Cranberry Lemon Drop Classic – Bright, Tart & Refreshing.

Some cocktails feel tied to a specific moment, and the Cranberry Lemon Drop is one of those drinks that instantly sets a mood. It’s crisp and vibrant, with just enough sweetness to balance the sharp citrus bite. I first started making this version during the holidays as an alternative to heavier, spiced drinks—but it quickly became a year-round favorite. The cranberry adds color and a gentle tartness, while fresh lemon keeps everything clean and focused.

This isn’t a syrupy bar drink or an overly sweet martini. It’s a classic-style cocktail that feels fresh, balanced, and easy to sip. Whether you’re hosting a small gathering, setting up a holiday cocktail station, or just mixing something special at home, this Cranberry Lemon Drop delivers familiar flavors with a slightly elevated edge.

It’s also wonderfully simple. With just a handful of ingredients and a good shake, you can create a cocktail that looks polished and tastes intentional—no fancy tools or obscure mixers required.

Ingredients

For One Cocktail

2 oz vodka (plain or citrus vodka both work well)
1 oz fresh lemon juice
1 oz cranberry juice (100% juice or lightly sweetened)
¾ oz simple syrup (adjust to taste)
Ice

For the Glass

Lemon wedge
Sugar (optional, for rimming the glass)

Optional Garnishes

Fresh cranberries
Lemon twist or wheel
Rosemary sprig (especially nice for winter gatherings)

Instructions

1. Prepare the Glass

If you like a sugared rim, rub the rim of a chilled martini or coupe glass with a lemon wedge.
Dip the rim into sugar, turning gently to coat.
Set the glass aside while you mix the drink.

Tip: A half-sugared rim works well if you want sweetness without overwhelming the drink.

2. Build the Cocktail

Fill a cocktail shaker with ice.
Add vodka, fresh lemon juice, cranberry juice, and simple syrup.

3. Shake Well

Shake vigorously for 15–20 seconds.
You want the mixture well-chilled and slightly frothy from the citrus.

4. Strain & Serve

Strain into your prepared glass.
Garnish with fresh cranberries, a lemon twist, or both.

Serve immediately while ice-cold.

Flavor & Texture Notes

This Cranberry Lemon Drop is bright and clean on the palate. The lemon juice leads with sharp citrus, followed closely by the tart fruitiness of cranberry. Vodka keeps the drink neutral and smooth, allowing the other flavors to stand out without distraction.

The simple syrup rounds everything out just enough to prevent the drink from tasting harsh. When properly shaken, the cocktail has a silky texture and a light froth that makes each sip feel polished and refreshing.

It’s a drink that feels lively without being aggressive—balanced, crisp, and easy to enjoy slowly.

Tips & Variations

Choose Your Cranberry Juice Wisely

100% cranberry juice: Very tart, bold, and clean. Increase simple syrup slightly if needed.
Lightly sweetened cranberry juice: More approachable and balanced right away.

Avoid cranberry cocktail blends with lots of added sugar—they can overpower the lemon.

Make It a Lemon-Cranberry Martini

Use citron vodka and add an extra ¼ oz lemon juice for a sharper, more citrus-forward version.

Sparkling Twist

Top the finished drink with a splash of chilled prosecco or sparkling water for a lighter, bubbly version.

Herbal Touch

Add a sprig of rosemary or thyme to the shaker for a subtle herbal note—especially good during colder months.

Lower-Alcohol Option

Reduce vodka to 1½ oz and add ½ oz sparkling water or cranberry soda.

Batch for a Crowd

To make a pitcher (about 6 servings):

12 oz vodka
6 oz fresh lemon juice
6 oz cranberry juice
4–5 oz simple syrup

Shake individual portions with ice or chill the batch and shake lightly before serving.

Storage & Make-Ahead

Make-Ahead Mixing

You can mix the vodka, lemon juice, cranberry juice, and simple syrup up to 24 hours ahead and store it in the fridge. Shake with ice just before serving for the best texture.

Leftovers

Once shaken with ice, the drink should be consumed right away. Dilution will affect flavor if it sits too long.

Serving Suggestions

Serve as a signature cocktail for holiday parties or winter gatherings
Pair with light appetizers like shrimp cocktail, crostini, or cheese boards
Offer alongside heavier meals to refresh the palate
Add to a cocktail flight with classic lemon drops or vodka martinis
Serve in coupe glasses for a polished look or rocks glasses over ice for a more casual vibe

A small bowl of sugared cranberries on the side makes a simple but festive garnish station.

FAQ

1. Can I use bottled lemon juice?

Fresh lemon juice is strongly recommended. Bottled juice lacks the brightness needed for this cocktail.

2. Is this drink very sweet?

No—it’s more tart than sweet. You can adjust the simple syrup to suit your taste.

3. What’s the best vodka to use?

A clean, mid-range vodka works perfectly. Citrus vodka adds extra lemon flavor but isn’t required.

4. Can I make this without sugar?

Yes. Use a sugar-free simple syrup or reduce the amount significantly if you prefer a sharper drink.

5. Can this be served over ice?

Absolutely. Serve in a rocks glass with fresh ice for a slower-sipping version.

Conclusion

The Cranberry Lemon Drop Classic is one of those cocktails that feels effortlessly put together. It’s crisp, colorful, and balanced—never too sweet, never too sharp. With simple ingredients and a quick shake, you get a drink that feels right at home at a holiday party, dinner gathering, or quiet evening in.